Horse racing and betting go hand in hand. Punters have long enjoyed wagering on runners and riders from around the world. Ireland is home to some of the best-known jockeys and trainers. It therefore should come as no surprise that horse racing betting sites are very much in demand. This horse racing betting guide will discuss everything from markets and promotions to strategy and live streaming. All of the horse racing betting sites mentioned are completely legal and safe in Ireland too.
Reviewing The Top 5 Horse Racing Sites in Ireland
1. Betfred: €30 Free Bet Offer
Dating back to 1967, Betfred is one of the best known bookmakers in Ireland. With a huge number of horse racing markets, odds at Betfred are among the best around. The bookie also delivers a variety of horse racing promotions, including best odds guaranteed, extra places and acca insurance.
Punters can watch all UK & Irish races live on desktop and mobile, with cash out and bet builder features also being available. The Betfred sportsbook is easy to use, with horse races being conveniently broken down into different categories.
What We Like
- Live streaming of UK & Irish horse racing
- Plenty of horse racing promotions
- Downloadable mobile betting app
- Generous each way odds
What We Don’t Like
- Lack of international ante post markets
2. QuinnBet: Bet €10 Get €50 Plus 50 Free Spins
Launched in 2017, Irish bookie QuinnBet was an almost instant hit. QuinnBet is well-known for promotions, with a number being specific to horse racing. These include best odds guaranteed, money back specials and acca insurance.
As well as a large number of ante post and pre-race markets, QuinnBet also offers regular virtual horse racing options. Races from the UK, across Europe, Australia and the US are available to bet on, with selected meetings being available via live stream.
What We Like
- Large number of horse racing promotions
- Virtual horse racing
- Horse racing live streaming
- Competitive odds
What We Don’t Like
- Bonus payment restrictions
3. Paddy Power: €20 Risk Free Bet
Irish bookie Paddy Power was founded in 1988. Now based in Malta, the bookie is another of the leading operators for horse racing betting. Along with a number of rewarding promotions, Paddy Power offers horse racing live streaming, a bet builder and cash out.
Virtual horse racing is available daily, along with a good number of ante post markets. An efficient mobile app is available on both iOS and Android. Meanwhile, the bookie offers 24/7 customer service and a host of payment methods.
What We Like
- Trusted Irish bookmaker
- Excellent horse racing coverage
- Virtual betting opportunities
- Leading horse racing odds
What We Don’t Like
- Irish & UK dominated
4. 888Sport: Bet €10 Get €30 In Free Bets
888Sport has long offered some of the best horse racing odds online. With meetings from the UK & Ireland, as well as other regions, being available to bet on, this well-known bookie continues to attract horse racing fans. Best odds guaranteed is available on all UK & Irish races, while non-runner no bet and double result promos are also found.
A bet builder can be used to create wagers, with live streaming of horse racing also being available. While the 888Sport sportsbook site is not as easy on the eye as others, it is efficient. Meanwhile, a mobile app caters for punters looking to bet via their smartphone or tablet.
What We Like
- Excellent horse racing odds
- Live streaming available
- iOS & Android betting apps
- Horse racing promotions
What We Don’t Like
- Sportsbook is a little outdated
5. PowBet: 100% Up To €100 Deposit Bonus
Despite having only been launched in 2021, PowBet has quickly become a firm favourite for punters in Ireland. Horse racing is one of over 35 sports found, while the bookie delivers a number of additional features too.
Full and partial cash out is available, along with a bet builder, live chat support and virtual horse racing. PowBet is undoubtedly one of the best new horse racing betting sites in Ireland.
What We Like
- Virtual horse racing
- 24/7 customer service
- Generous welcome bonus
- Full and partial cash out
What We Don’t Like
- No mobile app on iOS or Android
How We Rank the Best Irish Horse Racing Betting Sites
Given the number of online bookies accepting bets on horse races, it can be difficult to know where to wager. Punters can rest assured that our recommended horse racing betting sites have undergone strict testing. When reviewing new horse racing betting sites, our experts consider the following factors:
- Horse Racing Coverage – The best online bookies will cover horse races from around the world. Of course, punters in Ireland are likely to focus mainly on local racetracks. However, it is nice to know that bets can also be placed on races including the Kentucky Derby and Melbourne Cup. With regular action from everywhere from Down Royal to Aintree, Betfred is an excellent option for horse racing fans.
- Racing Odds – Online horse racing betting is fiercely competitive. Bookies can make themselves more attractive to punters by offering the best horse racing odds. Prices will differ between bookies, while some offer price boosts on selected races. Whether you wish to view odds in decimal or fractional formats, it is important to know that you are taking advantage of the best prices. Bookies that offer best odds guaranteed promotions will also appeal to punters. 888Sport regularly offers industry-leading odds, helping them to stay at the top of the scene for many years.
- Additional Features – Online horse racing betting is enhanced by additional features. Horse racing betting today includes live streaming, cash out, tote betting and much more. Such features often separate the best horse racing betting sites from the rest. Many online bookies also now offer expert horse racing betting tips, helping punters in deciding which runners and riders to back. There are few bookies with more features than Paddy Power.
- Horse Racing Promos – Free bets, price boosts, best odds guaranteed, faller insurance and non-runner no bet are some of the common horse racing betting promotions found online today. Such promos help punters in maximising their profits and minimising losses. Of course, terms and conditions are involved. However, our favourite new horse racing betting sites deliver a variety of generous deals. QuinnBet is a market leader in this area, accommodating players in Ireland well.
- Mobile Betting – A significant proportion of bets are now placed on smartphones and tablets. As such, many bookies have invested in order to develop horse racing betting apps. Such apps are downloadable on iOS and Android devices in most cases. Any horse racing betting guide will outline the importance of mobile platforms. In the event of a dedicated app not being available, betting sites must be fully functional via mobile browsers. With an efficient app for both iOS and Android users, 10Bet scores particularly well in this area.
The Key Features Of Horse Betting Sites in Ireland
As we mentioned above, horse racing betting today is all about features and promotions. This is why so many punters favour online bookmakers over high street betting shops. The table below shows how our top ranked horse racing betting Ireland sites perform in this area:
Online Bookie Best Odds Guaranteed Live Streaming Cash Out Acca Offers Betfred 
QuinnBet Paddy Power 888Sport PowBet SportNation Kwiff 
VirginBet 10Bet BetPat The Best Horse Racing Betting Strategies
There is no magic formula that will help punters in beating the bookies. However, some will use well-known betting strategies when it comes to wagering on horse racing. It is important to have some kind of system, rather than using a scattergun approach. The following are the horse racing betting strategies worth considering:
Each Way Betting
Taking away a significant amount of risk, each way betting is the method selected by many punters today. While it may seem obvious, placing an each way bet, rather than a win bet, increases the likelihood of returns. While the winnings may not be as large, consistent earnings will quickly add up. Of course, each way bets are only available on selected races. For example, races featuring 5 or less runners will not be eligible. However, with favourable each way odds now being offered by bookies, as well as extra places promotions, it is little surprise that this is the bet of choice for many.
Beaten Favourites
On average, favourites win horse races around ⅓ of the time. However, if you have been unsuccessful when backing a favourite in the past, this is not to say that they should be overlooked in the future. Those with a good knowledge of the sport will perhaps be able to work out when a former favourite has a good chance of bouncing back with a win. Consider the distance, going and surface when taking advantage of this strategy.
Dutching
Dutching is a strategy that will suit all the mathematicians out there. This system ensures that punters will earn the same amount each time when wagering on a selection of horses. Calculations are required, however this is actually fairly straightforward. Horse races featuring at least 10 runners are ideal here. Punters then pick two of the favourites, before working out the stake required to guarantee a profit. If you have heard of hedging your bets, this is what Dutching is all about.
Using the Exchange To Bet on Horses
Sportsbooks are known for offering fixed odds on horse races. However, betting exchanges offer an appealing alternative. Here, peer-to-peer betting takes place, often involving experienced punters. Users can place both back and lay bets, with operators charging a small commission on winning bets. Odds at betting exchanges are determined by the number and size of bets placed on each market. Many feel that the odds found on betting exchanges are better than traditional sportsbooks.
However, in order for your bet to be placed successfully, someone else must have bet on the opposite outcome. For example, you may wish to bet a particular runner winning the 1000 Guineas. This requires another punter to bet on that same horse not winning the race. The likes of Betfair and Smarkets are among the best in the business when it comes to betting exchanges.
The Top New Horse Racing Betting Sites in Ireland
Punters will likely already be familiar with some of the established bookies mentioned on this page. The likes of Betfred, Paddy Power and 888Sport have decades of experience between them. However, new horse racing betting sites are being launched on a regular basis. Often coming with attractive welcome offers and modern features, such platforms are worth considering. The following are our favourite new horse racing betting sites for punters in Ireland:
The Most Popular Horse Racing Betting Markets
Horse racing fans can take advantage of a host of markets when wagering on the sport. It is the following markets that attract the most interest from punters:
Win
As the name suggests, this type of bet involves simply picking the horse that you believe will win the race. The margin of victory or any other factors are not important. The success of your bet will be determined only by which runner crosses the finishing post first.
Each Way
Each way bets are broken down into two parts. The first half of your stake goes on the horse winning the race. Meanwhile, the second is on them placing. Place terms and conditions differ between bookies, surrounding the number of places and the odds offered. Each way bets are popular due to the level of insurance available.
Head to Head
On some betting sites, it is possible to bet on one horse finishing ahead of another. Also known as match bets, the exact position of the horses in question is not relevant. Your pick must simply finish ahead of the other for your bet to win.
Accumulators
Horse racing and accumulators go hand in hand. For example, punters often bet on a handful of races over a weekend. The higher the number of picks added, the greater the potential returns will be. However, should just one selection be incorrect, your bet will lose. This is why some bookies now offer acca insurance on horse racing.
Specials
Whether it be on the leading trainer at the Cheltenham Festival or the Irish National Hunt Jockeys’ Title, specials are available on an increasing number of betting sites. Such markets provide an alternative to traditional horse racing betting options.
The 3 Best Horse Racing Betting Offers in Ireland
The popularity of horse racing betting means that promotions specific to the sport are available with most bookies. Some are more appealing than others, with the terms and conditions often impacting how punters qualify. Below are the top 3 horse racing betting offers available to customers in Ireland today:
QuinnBet – Money Back if 2nd to the Favourite
Applying to all UK & Irish horse races, punters at QuinnBet will receive their money back in
the event of their pick finishing second behind the race favourite. Returns are paid out as free bets, with €10 being the maximum amount. At least six runners must feature in the race in order to qualify. Betfred – Extra Place Races
Betfred delivers extra places on selected races. Applying to both single and multiple bets,
this promotion is perfect for punters placing each way bets. While ante post wagers are not eligible, thanks to this offer from Betfred, returns can be made if your pick finishes in up to 3rd, 4th or even 5th place. Paddy Power – Best Odds Guaranteed
Many bookies now offer horse racing best odds guaranteed offers. However, there are few
better than at Paddy Power. Available on all UK & Irish races from 8am on race day, the bookie will pay out at the higher odds, should the starting price for your pick be greater than when you backed it. This promotion applies to single and multiple bets, on both win and each way markets. The maximum payment through best odds guaranteed at Paddy Power is £1,000 per day.Horse Racing Betting Terms
Those new to horse racing betting may well come across terms and phrases in which they are unfamiliar with. It is important to get to grips with such terms, in order to avoid any surprises when wagering on different race types. In order to help you along the way, we have provided definitions of some of the key horse racing terms:
- All Weather – This is an artificial surface that is found at racecourses including Kempton Park, Lingfield, Polytrack and Tapeta. It is different to both turf and dirt tracks.
- Bet Slip – A bet slip features horses bet on, as well as the odds given. Physical bet slips are produced by high street and on-site bookmakers. Meanwhile, digital bet slips are also found on horse racing betting sites. Those operating online do not have to worry about losing their bet slip!
- Bumper – This is what is known as a National Hunt Flat race. As such, there are no obstacles for runners and riders to overcome. This format of race generally takes place over a distance of around 2 miles. However, horse racing Ireland bumper races can be up to 2 ½ miles.
- Classics – The five leading flat races in the UK are known as the Classics. Made up by the 1000 and 2000 Guineas, as well as the Epsom Oaks, Epsom Derby and St Leger, such races attract huge interest from fans and punters alike. Classics are open to colts and fillies aged three.
- Dirt – While being more common in the US, some dirt tracks are found in Ireland and other parts of the UK. Here, there is no grass to speak of, with the distance usually being shorter too. Dirt tracks will suit runners who enjoy the going fast and wet.
- Furlong – The equivalent of ⅛ of a mile. This is a measurement used in Ireland and across the UK. You will often hear horse racing commentators saying that runners and riders are “approaching the final furlong”.
- Going – A description of the track conditions on race day. The course clerk will use a stick to determine the going, with this depending on how far it goes down into the ground.
- Handicap – In Ireland, the majority of horse races involve handicaps. This basically means that the highest rated horses will carry the heaviest weight, in order to even the playing field. Each horse is given a handicap ahead of the race, based on their weight.
- Headgear – Headgear is used by trainers in order to assist horses and jockeys during races. Cheekpieces and blinkers are the most common, helping to keep the horse focused. Meanwhile, hoods are often worn by horses when in the paddock before races.
- Hurdle – As the name suggests, horses must jump hurdles in such races. Hurdles are fixed on some tracks, while temporary panels are used at other racecourses. Hurdle races generally cover a distance of between 2-3 ¼ miles.
- Non-Runner – A non-runner is declared when the horse in question does not come under starters orders. Trainers can pull a horse out of a race for a number of reasons, including injuries and the going.
- Photo Finish – If two or more horses cross the finishing post at around the same time, a photo finish may well be required in order to determine the winner. In the rare event of judges still not being able to make a decision, the race will be ruled as a dead heat.
- Stalls – At some racecourses, horses will begin races by exiting out of stalls, also known as starting gates. Stalls are used to ensure that all entrants begin races on a level playing field.
- Steeplechase – Steeplechase races involve runners and riders having to jump fences, which are taller than hurdles. Such races take place over a distance of between 2-4 miles.
Where To Get The Best Horse Racing Betting Odds
Many online bookies claim to offer the best horse racing betting odds. However, the truth is that prices on upcoming races can differ significantly between sites. Of course, there is nothing stopping punters registering an account with a handful of bookies. Doing so will mean that you can take advantage of the best odds at all times. Having compared the horse racing odds on a large number of sites, it is the following that are generally the most competitive:
- Betfred – Bet €10 Get €30 Free Bet
- Paddy Power – €20 Risk Free Bet
- 888Sport – Bet €10 Get €30 In Free Bets
Live Streaming and Horse Racing Betting
Horse racing betting sites that offer live streaming will be one-up on their competitors already. There is nothing quite like watching the progress of your pick, whether they win or not. This is the most demanded feature surrounding horse racing betting today. A small qualifying bet is generally required in order to access streams. Coverage is offered in good quality, with many races being accompanied by commentary. Whether on desktop or mobile, it is the following bookies that offer horse racing live streaming:
Online Bookie Qualifying Conditions Visit Betting Site 
Funded sportsbook account Watch Now Funded sportsbook account Watch Now 
£1 qualifying bet Watch Now 
£1 qualifying bet within last 24 hours Watch Now Funded sportsbook account Watch Now Funded sportsbook account Watch Now The Biggest Horse Racing Betting Events
Horse racing betting customers in Ireland can wager on domestic meetings, as well as events from around the world. While races are held daily, there are undoubtedly some events which attract the interest of punters more than others. The table below shows some of the standout horse races to look out for:
Horse Racing Events Country Racecourse Type of Horse Racing When Pegasus World Cup USA Gulfstream Park Flat Dirt January Dublin Racing Festival Ireland Leopardstown National Hunt February Saudi Cup Saudi Arabia Riyadh Flat Turf & Dirt February Cheltenham Festival UK Cheltenham National Hunt March Dubai World Cup UAE Meydan Flat Turf & Dirt March Grand National UK Aintree National Hunt April Punchestown Festival Ireland Punchestown National Hunt April Kentucky Derby USA Churchill Downs Flat Dirt May Guineas Weekend UK Newmarket Flat Turf May Preakness Stakes USA Pimlico Flat Dirt May Derby Festival UK Epsom Downs Flat Turf June Belmont Stakes USA Belmont Park Flat Dirt June Royal Ascot UK Ascot Flat Turf June July Festival UK Newmarket Flat Turf July Glorious Goodwood UK Goodwood Flat Turf July Ebor Festival UK York Flat Turf August St Leger UK Doncaster Flat Turf September Irish Champions Weekend Ireland Leopardstown & Curragh Flat Turf September Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe France ParisLongchamp Flat Turf October QIPCO British Champions Day UK Ascot Flat Turf October Melbourne Cup Australia Flemington Flat Turf November Breeders Cup USA Different every year Flat Turf & Dirt November Winter Carnival UK Newbury National Hunt November King George VI Chase UK Kempton Park National Hunt December Christmas Festival Ireland Leopardstown National Hunt December Our 5 Key Horse Racing Betting Tips
Unfortunately, there are no guarantees of success when it comes to horse racing betting Ireland. The competitive nature of the sport means that backing regular winners is far from easy. Even the best horse racing betting tips will not be accurate each time. With that being said, punters should take on board the following tips in order to give themselves the best possible chance of beating the bookies:
- Study the Form Guide – A great deal of pre-race information is now available to punters. As a result, there is no excuse to avoid doing your homework. Look at the form of potential picks, as well as their age, weight and head to head records. This step should be undertaken before confirming any bet.
- Place Each Way Bets – Given the difficulty of regularly picking winners in horse races, each way bets become key. Here, half of the stake goes on win, while the other goes on place. Each way bets offer punters a level of insurance.
- Specialise in One Area – Given the number of races that take place daily around the world, it is almost impossible to be an expert across the board. Instead, focus on one particular area. Whether it be jump racing in Ireland or flat racing in Australia, learn about the horses, jockeys and trainers involved.
- Ante Post Wagers – The best horse racing odds are often available months before race day. Ante post prices are introduced well in advance of high profile races. For example, bets on the Cheltenham Gold Cup can be placed 12 months before the race actually takes place. Of course, patience is required here.
- Set a Budget – Regardless of your income, it is important to set a budget when horse racing betting. Wagers should be placed using a small proportion of your disposable income. Online bookies allow punters to set themselves deposit limits too, making sticking to a budget easier.
Final Word on Horse Racing Betting Ireland
Horse racing continues to go from strength to strength. The calendar is now packed full of high profile meetings, helping to add to the appeal of horse racing betting. Our recommended horse racing betting sites and horse racing betting apps are perfect for punters in Ireland. While many are established operators, the list also comprises new horse racing betting sites.
Whether you wish to bet on the Irish Grand National or the Cheltenham Festival, we have all bases covered. Our horse racing betting guide suits both beginners and professionals. So, check out our recommended bookies today, claiming your welcome offer when signing up!
Online Horse Racing Betting FAQs
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James Fuller
James Fuller
the event of their pick finishing second behind the race favourite. Returns are paid out as free bets, with 
this promotion is perfect for punters placing each way bets. While ante post wagers are not eligible, thanks to this offer from Betfred, returns can be made if your pick finishes in up to 3rd, 4th or even 5th place. 
better than at Paddy Power. Available on all UK & Irish races from 8am on race day, the bookie will pay out at the higher odds, should the starting price for your pick be greater than when you backed it. This promotion applies to single and multiple bets, on both win and each way markets. The maximum payment through best odds guaranteed at Paddy Power is £1,000 per day.
